Himachal Pradesh has achieved a staggering 99.55% literacy rate under the ULLAS initiative, securing a national award. The state is now racing toward 100% literacy by 2026-27.
- Himachal Pradesh has reached a 99.55% literacy rate, ranking second nationally.
- The state was honored with a national award on International Literacy Day in New Delhi.
- A strategic goal of 100% literacy has been set for the 2026-27 period.
In a landmark achievement for Indian education, Himachal Pradesh has climbed to the second spot in national literacy rankings. Under the aegis of the New India Literacy Programme (ULLAS), the state has recorded a literacy rate of 99.55%. Education Minister Rohit Thakur accepted the national award in Delhi, attributing the success to the collective efforts of teachers, students, and administrative officials.
The trajectory of growth has been steady and impressive. Just a year ago, on September 8, 2025, the state was declared fully literate with a rate of 99.3%. The jump to 99.55% narrows the gap significantly with Goa, which currently leads the nation with a literacy rate of 99.7%.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that Himachal's success is rooted in its decentralized approach to adult education. By targeting non-literate adults aged 15 and above, the ULLAS program has effectively bridged the generational educational divide. This movement transforms the socio-economic landscape of the hilly terrain, making the population more employable and digitally savvy.
"The transition from 99% to 100% is the hardest stretch in education, as it requires reaching the most marginalized individuals in the remotest corners."
The operational scale of the program is vast. Data reveals that 94,930 learners have been registered on the ULLAS portal across all 12 districts. This massive undertaking was supported by 19,232 trained volunteer teachers, highlighting a successful synergy between government policy and grassroots volunteerism.
Looking ahead, the Himachal government is not treating this milestone as a finish line. The strategy is now shifting toward "Functional Literacy," which includes digital literacy and vocational training. The objective is to ensure that basic reading and writing skills evolve into lifelong learning opportunities that provide tangible economic benefits to the citizens.
| State | Literacy Rate (%) | National Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Goa | 99.7% | 1 |
| Himachal Pradesh | 99.55% | 2 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the ULLAS programme?
A: It is the New India Literacy Programme aimed at providing basic education and functional literacy to non-literate adults aged 15+.
Q2: When does Himachal aim to reach 100% literacy?
A: The state government has set the target for the 2026-27 academic cycle.
